Depression Research Update: March 2016

The guidelines and research discussed in this slideshow assess the benefits of various therapies for depressive disorders.[1-3] Scroll through the slides for recommendations, findings, and take-home messages.

•Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is as effective as antidepressants in treating depression, according to new guidelines•FDA proposes that electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) should be reclassified from a high-risk to a low-risk intervention for major depressive disorder (MDD)•Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) adapted for adolescents significantly reduces self-harm and rapidly leads to recovery

Study design: Researchers conducted a 1-year prospective follow-up study of post-treatment clinical outcomes in 77 adolescents with recent and repetitive self-harm. The participants were randomly allocated to receive 19 weeks of either DBT adapted for adolescents or enhanced usual care.

Take-home message: DBT adapted for adolescents led to a stronger long-term reduction in self-harm and a more rapid recovery in suicidal ideation, depression, and borderline symptoms than enhanced usual care.

The guidelines and research discussed in this slideshow assess the benefits of various therapies for depressive disorders.1-3 Scroll through the slides for recommendations, findings, and take-home messages.